WHO Revokes Zimbabwe President Mugabe’s Ambassador Appointment

Following outrage across the world, including in his own country, the appointment of Zimbabwe’s President Robert Mugabe as a goodwill ambassador for the World Health Organisation (WHO) has been revoked.

Mugabe’s appointment as Goodwill Ambassador on NCDs (Non-Communicable Diseases) for Africa was announced just days ago at the WHO Global Conference on NCDs in Uruguay.

It was met with ridicule, anger and suspicion by medical staff, social workers and human rights activists who pointed out that the 93-year-old himself does not use Zimbabwe’s health system (preferring to travel to Singapore) because, as they allege, he has “run it into the ground” since his leadership began in 1980.

The WHO was accused of hypocrisy and the motives – and leadership ability – of Ethiopian politician and new WHO Director General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, was questioned.

Today Dr Tedros issued a statement saying: “Over the last few days, I have reflected on my appointment of H.E. President Robert Mugabe as WHO Goodwill Ambassador for NCDs in Africa. As a result I have decided to rescind the appointment.

“I have listened carefully to all who have expressed their concerns, and heard the different issues that they have raised. I have also consulted with the Government of Zimbabwe and we have concluded that this decision is in the best interests of the World Health Organization.

“It is my aim to build a worldwide movement for global health. This movement must work for everyone and include everyone.”

He said he remains committed to working with all countries and their leaders to ensure that every one has access to the health care they need.

“We must build bridges that bring us together and help us move forward in our quest to achieve universal health coverage.

“I thank everyone who has voiced their concerns and shared their thoughts. I depend on constructive debate to help and inform the work I have been elected to do.”